Can I Change or Revoke My Will in Pennsylvania?
Wills
Yes. In Pennsylvania, you have the legal right to change or revoke your will at any time—provided you are of sound mind and not under undue influence. Life changes quickly, and so can your estate planning needs. Whether you’re getting married, divorced, having children, or acquiring new property, it’s important to review your will regularly and update it as necessary.
At Clause Law Group, we help Pennsylvanians keep their estate plans current and enforceable. Here’s what you need to know about modifying or canceling your will in the Commonwealth.
How to Change a Will in Pennsylvania
You can change your will by:
- Creating a codicil: This is a formal amendment to an existing will. It must be signed and witnessed under the same formalities as the original will.
- Executing a new will: This is often the preferred method. The new will should include a clause that explicitly revokes all prior wills and codicils.
How to Revoke a Will in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania law, a will can be revoked by:
- Writing a new will that states the old one is revoked
- Physically destroying the will (burning, tearing, or otherwise obliterating it) with the intent to revoke it
- Ordering someone else to destroy it in your presence, at your direction
It is not enough to simply say you want to cancel your will—you must take one of these steps.
What Happens If I Only Want to Revoke Part of My Will?
If you only want to revoke or change part of your will, a codicil is appropriate. However, if you have multiple changes or major revisions, creating a brand-new will is cleaner and helps avoid confusion or disputes later.
What If I Get Divorced?
Under Pennsylvania law, if you get divorced after making a will, any provisions in favor of your former spouse are automatically revoked—unless the will specifically states otherwise. It is still wise to revise your will after a divorce to reflect your current wishes.
When Should I Update My Will?
You should consider updating your will if:
- You get married or divorced
- You have a child or adopt
- Your financial situation changes significantly
- A named beneficiary or executor dies
- You move to another state
Speak With a Pennsylvania Wills Attorney
Changing or revoking a will isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about protecting your family and preserving your legacy. At Clause Law Group, we make the process simple and legally sound.
Call Clause Law Group today at (570) 676-5212 to update your will or discuss your estate planning options.